Muizenberg

Muizenberg is known mainly for its beach. The young see it as a surfing/ kite-surfing hotspot, young parents see it as somewhere safe to take their kids out for a day at the beach and the middle-aged enjoy the food and spectacular views across False Bay. However, older people’s memories are, as usual, far more fascinating, aren’t they? Some older residents can remember their elders’ describing Muizenberg as the “bathing centre of the Cape”. The beach huts are still at Muizenberg and along the coastal path to St. James’ where the tidal rock pools attract a lively crowd of local people having fun and “promenading” on the weekends and during holidays. It is a truly magical spot..

On a clear day, the breadth of False Bay is visible right out to Betty’s Bay. The spray can be seen from the waves breaking over seal island; the home of the jumping great white sharks.

Despite the natural beauty, it’s clear that Muizenberg has been through cyclical changes of deprivation. In the early 20th Century, the Jewish community helped it to thrive again. A population boom and mass migration to the Cape Flats, Lavender Hill, and Capricorn changed the demographics.

The resurgence of adventurous surf sports has led to an innovative re-invention of Muizenberg. This is not only through employment but also through the impetus that a new generation can give to an astounding location. Foreign visitors enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, a wonderful ethnic mix, the watersports and the seafood. There’s a lot of neoprene and enthusiasm and a particular bustle involved with multicultural sports instruction. However, take a short walk or drive to Kalk Bay and the watersports are replaced by art, culture and gastronomy. Accommodation is usually in owner-run guest houses but there is an increasing number of AirB&B rentals. Most accommodation is aimed at the aforementioned water sports enthusiasts and this has led to an atmosphere that shouldn’t be missed on a trip to the Cape.